2024 Night of Giving
One of the most meaningful traditions of the Carolina BalloonFest doesn't happen in the sky—it happens in our community.
Each year, National Balloon Rally Charities, Inc., the nonprofit organization behind the Carolina BalloonFest, hosts its annual Night of Giving, where proceeds from the festival are reinvested into local nonprofits, youth organizations, scholarships, and community initiatives. Following another successful festival season, the organization proudly awarded $125,000 to organizations making a difference throughout Iredell County and beyond.
More Than a Festival
While visitors know the Carolina BalloonFest for its colorful balloons, live entertainment, and unforgettable experiences, the event has always been about something much bigger.
Every ticket purchased, volunteer hour served, sponsorship secured, and festival weekend helps support organizations that strengthen our community year-round.
"The Night of Giving truly represents the heart of our mission," said Festival Director Sam Parks. "It's our opportunity to give back to the community that has supported the Carolina BalloonFest for so many years."
A Community Effort
The success of the Carolina BalloonFest is made possible by countless people working together—from volunteers and sponsors to balloon pilots, landowners, vendors, community partners, and the thousands of guests who attend each October.
The annual Night of Giving is a celebration of that partnership and a reminder that the impact of the festival extends far beyond festival weekend.
Supporting Local Organizations
Funding from this year's Night of Giving will benefit a wide range of organizations focused on education, youth development, veterans services, health care, food assistance, arts and culture, community outreach, and emergency relief.
Recipients included organizations such as:
Boy Scouts of America Troops
Civil Air Patrol
Crosby Scholars
Crossroads Arts & Science Early College
Fifth Street Ministries
Guardians of the Children
Mitchell Community College Endowment
Piedmont Animal Rescue
Rainbow Kidz
Restoration Recovery
Rotary Club of Statesville
Sassy Caps
Statesville Kiwanis Club
United Way of Iredell County
Veterans of the Piedmont
Yokefellow Ministries
In addition to supporting local organizations, special contributions were also made to organizations assisting with Hurricane Helene relief efforts, demonstrating the festival's commitment to helping communities in times of need.
Looking Ahead
As one festival season comes to a close, planning for the next is already underway.
The Night of Giving serves as a reminder that the Carolina BalloonFest is more than a weekend event—it's an investment in the community that has supported it for generations.
We are grateful to every volunteer, sponsor, pilot, vendor, and guest who helps make this impact possible each year.
Together, we're not only creating unforgettable memories—we're helping our community soar.